DiRT 3's online mode currently unusable for PS3 owners

The continued absence of the PlayStation Store means that PS3 gamers hoping to engage in some online competition with CodeMasters' new racer will be sadly disappointed.

Like many recent titles, DiRT 3 makes use of a small piece of DLC to activate its online modes. The pass is free to those who purchase the game new, and will cost $10 to those who purchase a pre-owned copy where the code has already been redeemed. It provides access to two pieces of online functionality: multiplayer, and the ability to share short extracts from replays to YouTube.

Unfortunately, the fact the PlayStation Store is still not up and running means that PS3 gamers won't have access to these features for now — despite the fact that PSN in its current state is able to support online play.

Those who purchased L.A. Noire on PS3 have been running into a similar issue whereby they're unable to redeem their pre-order bonus cases — and, of course, anyone who buys any of the recent games from the big-name publishers is also affected. This means no Black Emporium for Dragon Age II (you're not missing much), no Cerberus Network for Mass Effect 2, no online play for anything from EA, no Autolog for Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit...

It's a temporary issue, of course, and Sony assured everyone via the PlayStation Blog yesterday that it was still targeting the "end of the month" as a timeframe for PlayStation Store service restoration. But if you're a multiplatform gamer, it's worth bearing in mind, particularly if you like to play online.

That said, DiRT 3 has plenty to keep you busy, even without online play. Check out our review to find out more.

The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.

My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.

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